Recent Mining Layoffs May Affect Port of Duluth-Superior

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Recent layoffs at mining plants on the Iron Range are having a trickle down effect.  

It may not be directly affecting the Duluth Seaway Port Authority now but it’s not out of the question. 

With 6 more months left in the season, Port officials say the season is right on track. 

But, some things are running quicker than others. 

No high peaks or no huge dips. 

“The 2015 shipping season is going to be a more average year,” said the Port’s Public Relations Manager, Adele Yorde.

Everything is right where it should be. 

Project cargo has significantly increased in the past month. 

“We’ve already had 7 ships this year and we’re looking at an upwards of 20 for the whole season,” said Yorde. 

But, layoffs on the Iron Range may cause a hiccup in price rates. 

“It’s affecting some of the tonnage that move through this port with the iron ore pellets moving out. We’re not seeing it so much yet in reflection of tonnage,” said Yorde. 

Officials say they will just have to see how the rest of the year plays out. 

The Port of Duluth-Superior handles nearly 40 million tons of cargo. 

11 million tons were carried through the month of June since the start in January.

The shipping season is expected to end mid-January.